If you’re already an introvert, don’t forget you bring yourself with you..It’s important to be more outgoing and to change it up drastically if you want to make new friendships..
I hate to keep sucking up, it's not intentional, but Don: Your candid nature, your willingness to just say how things are for you is refreshing. I like not having a sugar-coated rendition of things surrounding expatriating to Ecuador. Thanks my friend. (Doug from Honolulu!).
I agree Janet. I was extremely lonely in the US because everybody is so wrapped up in their own sh&t, tied to their cell phones, and just don't give a damned about anyone but themselves. No matter how many times I just tried to be a good neighbor, I consistently failed. My own family treated me like I was a stranger sometimes.
I applaud you for your strength and for having the courage to move to another country. I know many people here in Canada that are half your age and are scare to even move to another city never mind to another country’s. You are amazing for doing what you did. Bravo!
You can be lonely everywhere. Be it Ecuador and chicago. Staying home and just going out when eating or shopping is not enough. Volunteer. Help somewhere. I am sure there are places that may need your help.
I really appreciate your candor and straight-talking. It gives an honest picture of what newbie expats might encounter. Thank you for making these videos!
Hi Don! I just found you and I’m so glad I did! I’m Brenda and I am planning to move to Cuenca in about 18 months. I’m excited to watch all of your videos. Just wanted to introduce myself and say hi.
Another helpful video... Your reports and to the point comments are much appreciated. I not only follow you but also my friends that I turned on to your channel! Thank you, David Anbar
Not likely that there is any "perfect" plan, but I would advise anyone thinking of putting their stuff in storage to compare the value of that stuff to the annual cost of storing it. If you have to fly back to the States, (or wherever) to sell a car, will you even net enough to pay for the trip? Obviously, if you drive a 2 year old Mercedes, this is a different calculation than if you drive a 12 year old Civic.
Great video as always Don. As a single man that moved to Ecuador from the USA via Brazil I can say the dating world in Ecuador as well as in other countries can be as we say a shit show if you aren't careful. There are gringos who take advantage of the locals "both men and women" and there are locals who take advantage of the gringos "both men and women". I've seen some of this first hand in many instances of both sides of people taking advantage of others so be careful " I have seen "mostly" gringo men fall in love almost on a monthly occasion with local women who have been with many of the gringo men in that they already know. As far as the gringo bubble you are spot on Don at first it's necessary imo but also be careful who you become friends with because there are many gringos here with bad intentions and the more you get to know them the quicker you realize that more often than not the locals are great people and very helpful and have much better character than some of the gringos "oh the stories I could tell".
Having lived overseas many times in my life I devise caution not selling vehicles and keeping them in storage for extended periods. Cars need to be driven. Todays gasoline deteriorates fast.
Don, Thanks again for another enlightening video. Due to unforeseen illness, my move has been delayed, but having spent several months, spread over several exploratory trips, over the years, I made a number of wonderful friends both on the coast and in the sierra that I know will help me stave off any loneliness, when I am finally able to make the move. Several are expats, but a number are Ecuadorians, 2 of which speak about as much English as I speak Spanish. Not much! But Google translate and a bottle of wine makes us all easier to communicate with. I have found the Ecuadorian people are kind and so pleased that we try to speak Spanish even when we butcher it. & you are right about Facebook. There are some wonderful groups in most towns and a really, really good one that is nationwide, Ecuador Expats. Many Ecuadorians also belong. Politics and hateful speech is not allowed, but there is so much good sharing of information. In fact, I've made a few FB friends that way too, that I Iook forward to meeting in the future. Keep up the good work.
Another fantastic video...so thankful that you share your experiences with honesty....we will be making our first exploration trip in October....and another in January.....can not wait...thanks again Don...stay happy safe and healthy
Thanks for your good advice! It sounds as if you are recovered from your illness, and know how to get out and about and connect with others. Continue living the dream. We are enjoying your YT chats very much!
Can’t wait to see your next video Don. My Dad just passed away there in Manta this past March. Made a video about it. I came in a hurry from Virginia for the funeral and help mom do all the paperwork. She’s an American expat that’s been living there for 55 years now. Anyway, Dad was in an assisted living center there in Manta where I plan to stay once I’m retired there and my wits are no longer there. That’s how much I recommend it. We were really happy on how my Dad was cared for there. Cheers, Otto
Otto, Would you mind sending me an email at dshader644@gmail.com. I'd like to ask you some questions related to your Dad's long term care for a video I'm putting together. Thanks so much. -ds
My goodness you are giving great advices to people! You are sharp and smart! My mom used to tell us when we said: oh I'm bored! Mom use to tell us, my brother and sister : " keep yourself busy, read, learn something new ( she was a teacher, the old teachers, today teachers? Hmmm don't have the vocation and passion to teach, it is bad like all over, like the USA almost that bad! Because they like to follow! Anyway, and keep smiling, be kind, be friendly, helpful. That of course is not a warrant everybody will reciprocate your ways but the ones like you will be happy to see a friendly, kind smile. Don't wait nothing in return just be nice. I worked in the school here for 14 years... Nobody ever asked me where l came from, nobody was interested in anything about everybody else. Here they say: " Mind your own business" for latinos... we usually don't .so don't worry .
Your comment made me chuckle, because as farm kids, my brother and I learned very early to NEVER admit to being bored! There was always another chore to be done. 🙂 Seriously, though, one of my favorite activities in the dead of winter when we couldn't be outside was pulling out the globe with my dad. I would close my eyes and point, he would spin, and we'd read about wherever my finger landed in our 1973 World Book Enclopedias. Both my parents loved to read and passed it along to both of us - such a gift, right?
My family and I are considering a move to Cuenca but are concerned about the political climate. I know when a country is poor, they are more susceptible to Marxism, etc. Would love to hear your thoughts on that subject. Thanks.
Good stuff. I've always been a loner. Moving for low cost and fresh fruit. Just need to speak as well as the Mexican dudes I work with speak English - listening will be super important 😎
This was IMO one of your best videos Don basically because it hit home since I plan to go Manta all by myself after I retire in a couple of years. Very good advice on how not to feel lonely/bored over there. In my case, being a native Spanish speaker and having lived 45 years in Peru I'm sure will help in getting quickly adjusted. I plan to visit Ecuador early next year, I'll let you know, would love to meet you and enjoy a cup of coffee (tea for me!) at that place you mentioned in past videos. Thanks again and looking forward for the next video!!
Hello Don Well you did it again...lol. You made a video that others can relate to. Being alone and being lonely are two different things. Immersing yourself into your own self and getting involved is definitely the right thing to do. I do hope when I come to Equador that I get a chance to meet you. It would be my pleasure. I'll bring you a small token from the ice and snow of Edmonton Alberta Canada...lol. Take care and keep making those great inspirational videos. Thank you, Sandra
Hey Don, excellent video once again. I haven't been lonely or bored...but of course I have my furry family. I have been so amazingly welcomed by expats and Ecuadorians. It is of course scary to move far from everyone and everything you know...but I have found it so so worth it. You are right about expats. Good and bad. Just like every where there are some loony loony tunes and some amazing ones. You're the best. Thanks for all you do!
Loneliness??, here in NYC es easy to feel Loneliness, I live 10 yrs in this house and my next door neighbor (Croatian) never say hello and I have not idea who lives crossing the street, in Ecuador is normal that an estrange talk to you
Hi Don. This is great one on one conversation; that's how I felt anyway. I really appreciate you talking about this as it's a reality that needs to be discussed no matter where you find yourself. I also found the volunteer organization interesting, perhaps you can do a segment on that too. Great job!!
THE ONLY THING I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND DIFFERENTLY IS TO LEARN AT LEAST A LITTLE SPANISH BEFORE MOVING TO ECUADOR AND BE DETERMINED TO TAKE LESSONS AND ENGAGE IN CONVERSATION WITH SPANISH SPEAKERS. OTHERWISE YOU ARE NOT REALLY ASSIMILATING INTO THE CULTURE.
Thanks, Don. Another really great video! I appreciate your videos a lot. But, yeah, might be a good idea to hedge our bets sometimes and store some of the basic things like a car and perhaps even some furniture. Like you said, you can always go back and get rid of it all a year or so into this adventure when you are more confident about moving abroad. Just hang on to a few basic items in order to restart a life back home if you just want to go back after a trial run abroad. Unless you need the money, I guess.
Hi Don. I always look forward to your videos. I love your sense of humor and honesty. I can wait for the next one! The only thing I can say is that if you die in Ecuador, don't have any money in your pockets😂 😆
Don! Great to see you! These were interesting questions, and ones I know Tracie and I consider and talk about all the time: making friends that share our interests. I noticed you referenced your photography! When are we going to see some more of it? I hope when we get to Ecuador we can fenagle you out of a Don Shader Original!
"Single like yourself" I thought you were dating A realtor lady ?? I thought your reply to her Questions were spot on & sounded like Great Advice I don't think anyone could do any better than what you said
Don,
Great to see you back and recovered. Take care
If you’re already an introvert, don’t forget you bring yourself with you..It’s important to be more outgoing and to change it up drastically if you want to make new friendships..
I agree, thanks.
I hate to keep sucking up, it's not intentional, but Don: Your candid nature, your willingness to just say how things are for you is refreshing. I like not having a sugar-coated rendition of things surrounding expatriating to Ecuador. Thanks my friend. (Doug from Honolulu!).
You're welcome my friend. Thanks for your continued support.
I live in the US and loneliness is everywhere. You have to get out there and make it happen. This world needs more kindness!
I agree Janet. I was extremely lonely in the US because everybody is so wrapped up in their own sh&t, tied to their cell phones, and just don't give a damned about anyone but themselves.
No matter how many times I just tried to be a good neighbor, I consistently failed. My own family treated me like I was a stranger sometimes.
I applaud you for your strength and for having the courage to move to another country. I know many people here in Canada that are half your age and are scare to even move to another city never mind to another country’s. You are amazing for doing what you did. Bravo!
You are not alone mister. You have 18 millions of friends here in Ecuador
I completely agree 100%..w you...etc .THANKS plenty to learn from u
You can be lonely everywhere. Be it Ecuador and chicago. Staying home and just going out when eating or shopping is not enough. Volunteer. Help somewhere. I am sure there are places that may need your help.
5k, congrats super Don!
I really appreciate your honest and straight forward approach, thank you.
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
I really appreciate your candor and straight-talking. It gives an honest picture of what newbie expats might encounter. Thank you for making these videos!
You are so welcome!
Don, thanks for another great vid.
Hi Don! I just found you and I’m so glad I did! I’m Brenda and I am planning to move to Cuenca in about 18 months. I’m excited to watch all of your videos. Just wanted to introduce myself and say hi.
Thanks Brenda and welcome aboard.
-ds
Another helpful video... Your reports and to the point comments are much appreciated. I not only follow you but also my friends that I turned on to your channel! Thank you, David Anbar
Much appreciated. Thank you.
-ds
Very good video. Thank you for the information.
Not likely that there is any "perfect" plan, but I would advise anyone thinking of putting their stuff in storage to compare the value of that stuff to the annual cost of storing it. If you have to fly back to the States, (or wherever) to sell a car, will you even net enough to pay for the trip? Obviously, if you drive a 2 year old Mercedes, this is a different calculation than if you drive a 12 year old Civic.
Thanks well said that it.🇪🇨
Love your story
Life is an adventure, both good and bad.
Great video as always Don. As a single man that moved to Ecuador from the USA via Brazil I can say the dating world in Ecuador as well as in other countries can be as we say a shit show if you aren't careful. There are gringos who take advantage of the locals "both men and women" and there are locals who take advantage of the gringos "both men and women". I've seen some of this first hand in many instances of both sides of people taking advantage of others so be careful " I have seen "mostly" gringo men fall in love almost on a monthly occasion with local women who have been with many of the gringo men in that they already know. As far as the gringo bubble you are spot on Don at first it's necessary imo but also be careful who you become friends with because there are many gringos here with bad intentions and the more you get to know them the quicker you realize that more often than not the locals are great people and very helpful and have much better character than some of the gringos "oh the stories I could tell".
I couldn't agree more Jeff. I meet nut cases quite often, both men and women.
-ds
Thanks for this, Don. Seems like wise advice and speaks to one of the concerns I’ve had while considering a move to Ecuador now that I’m retired.
Good questions and very informative - tks!
Glad it was helpful!
Having lived overseas many times in my life I devise caution not selling vehicles and keeping them in storage for extended periods. Cars need to be driven. Todays gasoline deteriorates fast.
I sort of agree. Cars be easily bought and sold. But for six months or less, you can by gasoline treatment to helps.
Don: Thanks for the video and I'm looking forward to your next video about End of Life situations. Tom
Don, Thanks again for another enlightening video. Due to unforeseen illness, my move has been delayed, but having spent several months, spread over several exploratory trips, over the years, I made a number of wonderful friends both on the coast and in the sierra that I know will help me stave off any loneliness, when I am finally able to make the move. Several are expats, but a number are Ecuadorians, 2 of which speak about as much English as I speak Spanish. Not much! But Google translate and a bottle of wine makes us all easier to communicate with. I have found the Ecuadorian people are kind and so pleased that we try to speak Spanish even when we butcher it. & you are right about Facebook. There are some wonderful groups in most towns and a really, really good one that is nationwide, Ecuador Expats. Many Ecuadorians also belong. Politics and hateful speech is not allowed, but there is so much good sharing of information. In fact, I've made a few FB friends that way too, that I Iook forward to meeting in the future. Keep up the good work.
Thanks so much for sharing dear Don and, you are right 💕💓💕
You are so welcome
Good video again Don and Mr. Parker.
Another fantastic video...so thankful that you share your experiences with honesty....we will be making our first exploration trip in October....and another in January.....can not wait...thanks again Don...stay happy safe and healthy
Thanks for your good advice! It sounds as if you are recovered from your illness, and know how to get out and about and connect with others.
Continue living the dream. We are enjoying your YT chats very much!
Thanks Jo Ann, the recovery is slow but I'm getting there.
Thanks
-ds
Can’t wait to see your next video Don. My Dad just passed away there in Manta this past March. Made a video about it. I came in a hurry from Virginia for the funeral and help mom do all the paperwork. She’s an American expat that’s been living there for 55 years now.
Anyway, Dad was in an assisted living center there in Manta where I plan to stay once I’m retired there and my wits are no longer there. That’s how much I recommend it. We were really happy on how my Dad was cared for there. Cheers, Otto
Otto,
Would you mind sending me an email at dshader644@gmail.com. I'd like to ask you some questions related to your Dad's long term care for a video I'm putting together.
Thanks so much.
-ds
My goodness you are giving great advices to people! You are sharp and smart! My mom used to tell us when we said: oh I'm bored! Mom use to tell us, my brother and sister : " keep yourself busy, read, learn something new ( she was a teacher, the old teachers, today teachers? Hmmm don't have the vocation and passion to teach, it is bad like all over, like the USA almost that bad! Because they like to follow! Anyway, and keep smiling, be kind, be friendly, helpful. That of course is not a warrant everybody will reciprocate your ways but the ones like you will be happy to see a friendly, kind smile. Don't wait nothing in return just be nice. I worked in the school here for 14 years... Nobody ever asked me where l came from, nobody was interested in anything about everybody else. Here they say: " Mind your own business" for latinos... we usually don't .so don't worry .
Your comment made me chuckle, because as farm kids, my brother and I learned very early to NEVER admit to being bored! There was always another chore to be done. 🙂 Seriously, though, one of my favorite activities in the dead of winter when we couldn't be outside was pulling out the globe with my dad. I would close my eyes and point, he would spin, and we'd read about wherever my finger landed in our 1973 World Book Enclopedias. Both my parents loved to read and passed it along to both of us - such a gift, right?
Love you a lot Mr. Shader! ❤ like I love JP and Amelia! Blessings
My family and I are considering a move to Cuenca but are concerned about the political climate. I know when a country is poor, they are more susceptible to Marxism, etc. Would love to hear your thoughts on that subject. Thanks.
That's wherever you go. And it doesn't have to be a poor country. There are far more things to be concerned about.
Thank you for creating your videos, Don.
Good stuff. I've always been a loner. Moving for low cost and fresh fruit. Just need to speak as well as the Mexican dudes I work with speak English - listening will be super important 😎
This was IMO one of your best videos Don basically because it hit home since I plan to go Manta all by myself after I retire in a couple of years. Very good advice on how not to feel lonely/bored over there. In my case, being a native Spanish speaker and having lived 45 years in Peru I'm sure will help in getting quickly adjusted. I plan to visit Ecuador early next year, I'll let you know, would love to meet you and enjoy a cup of coffee (tea for me!) at that place you mentioned in past videos. Thanks again and looking forward for the next video!!
Well get on down here Peter and lets have a cup.
-ds
Hello Don
Well you did it again...lol. You made a video that others can relate to. Being alone and being lonely are two different things. Immersing yourself into your own self and getting involved is definitely the right thing to do.
I do hope when I come to Equador that I get a chance to meet you. It would be my pleasure. I'll bring you a small token from the ice and snow of Edmonton Alberta Canada...lol.
Take care and keep making those great inspirational videos.
Thank you, Sandra
Hey Don, excellent video once again. I haven't been lonely or bored...but of course I have my furry family. I have been so amazingly welcomed by expats and Ecuadorians. It is of course scary to move far from everyone and everything you know...but I have found it so so worth it. You are right about expats. Good and bad. Just like every where there are some loony loony tunes and some amazing ones. You're the best. Thanks for all you do!
Thanks Susy.
-ds
Loneliness??, here in NYC es easy to feel Loneliness, I live 10 yrs in this house and my next door neighbor (Croatian) never say hello and I have not idea who lives crossing the street, in Ecuador is normal that an estrange talk to you
Ecuadorians are very friendly.
Just curious, why don't you go next door and introduce yourself? You might be surprised at the results.
You're right about Ecuadorians.
@@DonShader I like moving, usually my new neighbors welcome us, probably this particular guy assumed that I don't speak English 😁
Hi Don. This is great one on one conversation; that's how I felt anyway. I really appreciate you talking about this as it's a reality that needs to be discussed no matter where you find yourself. I also found the volunteer organization interesting, perhaps you can do a segment on that too. Great job!!
Can you put together a video explaining from a to z how you went about moving to Ecuador and what you did once you got to Ecuador. Thanks
I've done quite a few videos that pretty much explained my experience with the move. Is there anything in particular you'd like to know?
THE ONLY THING I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND DIFFERENTLY IS TO LEARN AT LEAST A LITTLE SPANISH BEFORE MOVING TO ECUADOR AND BE DETERMINED TO TAKE LESSONS AND ENGAGE IN CONVERSATION WITH SPANISH SPEAKERS. OTHERWISE YOU ARE NOT REALLY ASSIMILATING INTO THE CULTURE.
Don't be yelling at us please. Is you Caps lock stuck?
Great advice, Don! You are an encourager. 👍
Great video Don. Keep it up 👍
Thanks, Don. Another really great video! I appreciate your videos a lot.
But, yeah, might be a good idea to hedge our bets sometimes and store some of the basic things like a car and perhaps even some furniture. Like you said, you can always go back and get rid of it all a year or so into this adventure when you are more confident about moving abroad. Just hang on to a few basic items in order to restart a life back home if you just want to go back after a trial run abroad. Unless you need the money, I guess.
Another great video! Thank you
Thanks Kim.
Hi Don. I always look forward to your videos. I love your sense of humor and honesty. I can wait for the next one! The only thing I can say is that if you die in Ecuador, don't have any money in your pockets😂 😆
Don! Great to see you! These were interesting questions, and ones I know Tracie and I consider and talk about all the time: making friends that share our interests. I noticed you referenced your photography! When are we going to see some more of it? I hope when we get to Ecuador we can fenagle you out of a Don Shader Original!
Tim, I closed my web site down after almost 20 years but you can still see my work on Instagram @shaderdon
Thanks so much.
-ds
"Single like yourself" I thought you were dating A realtor lady ??
I thought your reply to her Questions were spot on & sounded like Great Advice
I don't think anyone could do any better than what you said
Haha, I am dating but I'm still single.
Thank you. By the way, does the government still demand you to wear a face mask outside, or outdoors?
No
WHAT? PEOPLE ARE REALLY ASKING THE QUESTION OF WHETHER THEY WILL BE LONELY IN ECUADOR? I DON'T THINK IT'D EVEN ANSWER THAT.
Do you go to a gym or club where there is tennis?
Me? Are you serious? Go to a gym? Me?
There ARE tennis clubs here in Manta.
Any expats who made the move late in life. like late 70's? If in good health is it still worth it?
I've met a handful and they seem to be ok. I know a man that's 94 and still walks all over Manta.
I think it's all a matter of attitude and spirit.
THE QUESTIONS THAT THIS PERSON ASKED ABOUT BEING LONELY IN ECUADOR APPLIES TO ANY PLACE WHERE YOU LIVE, GEESH!
Be nice please.
Except for many is the language barrier.
@@stj971 That's no excuse.